The International Peace Institute (IPI) is an independent, international not-for-profit think tank dedicated to managing risk and building resilience to promote peace, security, and sustainable development. To achieve its purpose, IPI employs a mix of policy research, strategic analysis, publishing, and convening. With staff from more than twenty countries and a broad range of academic fields, IPI has offices facing United Nations headquarters in New York and offices in Vienna and Manama.

United Nations Sanctions on Iran and North Korea: An Implementation Manual

As sanctions imposed by the United Nations Security Council have become increasingly sophisticated and targeted, they have also become more and more difficult to implement effectively. Currently there are fourteen active UN sanctions regimes. Among them are the sanctions regimes on Iran and North Korea.

This manual is intended as a tool for those charged with implementing sanctions—frontline actors from UN member states, international organizations, and the private sector. Specifically, the manual delivers detailed guidance on how to enable a more effective implementation of the UN sanctions on Iran and North Korea.

The manual includes an introductory section explaining the history and practice of Security Council sanctions, including a section on the sanctions committees and other affiliated support mechanisms. It then explains in detail the sanctions issued against Iran and North Korea and provides examples of how they have been systematically violated, including case studies of the illegal trade in restricted nuclear items and ballistic missiles. The manual concludes with specific recommendations for the officials in charge of implementing sanctions, including state officers, customs and border control officials, and transportation and financial industry regulators.

Finally, the manual includes links to extensive annex materials, including a comprehensive listing of the UN sanctions on Iran and North Korea and the corresponding restricted materials, equipment, and technology.

Despite challenges, regional courts could become increasingly important sites for victims of international crimes if provided better resourcing, clearer access for victims, and support from governments.

About the International Peace Institute

The International Peace Institute is an independent, international not-for-profit think tank with a staff representing more than 20 nationalities, located in New York across from United Nations headquarters.
IPI is dedicated to promoting the prevention and resolution of conflicts between and within states by strengthening international peace and security institutions.
To achieve its purpose, IPI employs a mix of policy research, convening, publishing and outreach.